Azunna Sunday | Structural Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Azunna Sunday | Structural Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Doctoral Researcher | Housing research centre | Malaysia

Mr. Azunna Sunday Ugochukwu has established a strong professional and research background in civil and structural engineering, with notable expertise in sustainable construction materials, structural analysis, and project management. His career includes extensive work in both academic and industrial settings, where he contributed to the design and execution of major infrastructure projects such as residential complexes, university facilities, religious centers, and extensive road networks across Nigeria. At Universiti Putra Malaysia, his research has focused on innovative materials for civil engineering applications, including coconut shell, palm kernel shell, recycled bricks, granite powder, and rubberized geopolymer concrete, leading to multiple publications in reputable international journals. His scholarly contributions span experimental and review studies, addressing compressive strength, stress-strain behavior, and dynamic response of advanced concrete materials, demonstrating his capacity to integrate environmental sustainability with engineering performance. Beyond research, Azunna has engaged in professional workshops on structural modeling, design, and detailing, sharing expertise with institutions such as Federal Polytechnic Bauchi and Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University. His memberships with COREN, the Nigerian Institution of Civil Engineers, and the Nigerian Society of Engineers affirm his commitment to professional standards and development within the engineering community. With experience as an assistant structural engineer, assistant project manager, and doctoral researcher, he has consistently demonstrated versatility in applying theoretical knowledge to practical engineering challenges. His skill set includes advanced structural design software, AutoCAD, drone operation, and engineering instrumentation, underscoring his technological adaptability. The scope of his executed projects—from institutional buildings to healthcare facilities and leisure parks—highlights his versatility and capacity to manage diverse engineering assignments effectively. His growing academic output, combined with practical project delivery, positions him as a significant contributor to advancing civil engineering knowledge and practice. Engr. Azunna Sunday Ugochukwu has achieved 120 Citations, 8 Documents, and 5 h-index.

Featured Publications:

Azunna, S. U. (2019). Compressive strength of concrete with palm kernel shell as a partial replacement for coarse aggregate. SN Applied Sciences, 1(4), 342.

Azunna, S. U., Aziz, F. N. A. A., Rashid, R. S. M., & Bakar, N. B. A. (2024). Review on the characteristic properties of crumb rubber concrete. Cleaner Materials, 12, 100237.

Azunna, S. U., Aziz, F. N. A. A., Cun, P. M., & Elhibir, M. M. O. (2019). Characterization of lightweight cement concrete with partial replacement of coconut shell fine aggregate. SN Applied Sciences, 1(6), 649.

Azunna, S. U., Aziz, F. N. A. A., Bakar, N. A., & Nasir, N. A. M. (2018). Mechanical properties of concrete with coconut shell as partial replacement of aggregates. IOP Conference Series: Materials Science and Engineering, 431(3), 032001.

Azunna, S. U., Aziz, F. N. A. B. A., Al-Ghazali, N. A., Rashid, R. S. M., & Bakar, N. A. (2024). Review on the mechanical properties of rubberized geopolymer concrete. Cleaner Materials, 11, 100225.

Pei Bida – Construction Management – Best Researcher Award

Pei Bida | Construction Management | Best Researcher Award

Lecture | Changsha University of Science & Technology | China

Pei Bida has focused research efforts on advancing the field of civil and environmental engineering with a strong emphasis on modern methods and technologies that enhance the performance, safety, and sustainability of large-scale infrastructure systems. His primary interests include Building Information Modeling (BIM), which he employs to improve project coordination, optimize resource use, and advance the integration of digital solutions into engineering practices. A significant portion of his work is devoted to the numerical simulation of large-span bridges, where he applies computational techniques to analyze structural responses under varying conditions, thereby providing more accurate assessments of safety, serviceability, and durability. This direction in research contributes to the efficient design, construction, and maintenance of bridge systems, ensuring that they meet the increasing demands of modern transportation networks. Another key area of his expertise lies in the fatigue analysis of steel bridges, where he examines the long-term behavior of materials and structural components subjected to cyclic loading. Through such investigations, he seeks to address critical issues of degradation and performance loss, thereby extending the service life of important infrastructure while reducing maintenance costs. His research not only contributes to academic understanding but also has direct practical applications in engineering practice, offering solutions to pressing challenges faced in bridge construction and management. By integrating BIM, advanced simulations, and fatigue studies, Pei Bida is shaping a holistic approach to modern civil engineering that bridges theoretical insights with engineering applications. His contributions demonstrate a commitment to advancing safe, efficient, and technologically driven infrastructure solutions that align with the evolving needs of society. This ongoing body of work underlines his role as a significant contributor to civil engineering research, and his scholarly impact is reflected in 231 Citations by 217 documents, 23 Documents, and a 9 h-index View.

Profile: Scopus
Publications
  1. Experimental and analytical study on the flexural behavior of a novel steel-NC-UHPC composite bridge deck system. (2025).

  2. Experimental study on negative bending resistance of steel-NC-UHPC composite bridge deck. (2025).

Ming Xie – Structural Engineering – Best Researcher Award

Ming Xie - Structural Engineering - Best Researcher Award

Assistant to the president at Xijing University | China

Ming Xie is a highly accomplished academic and researcher with expertise in civil engineering, specializing in structural analysis and advanced material behavior. With years of dedication to innovative engineering solutions, Ming has contributed significantly to research and education, advancing knowledge in structural performance and damage mechanics. Recognized for producing impactful studies and contributing to the academic community, Ming has developed a reputation for precision and depth in research. Through numerous publications and leadership roles, Ming continues to push the boundaries of civil engineering innovation and inspire emerging scholars in the field.

Professional Profile

ORCID

Education

Ming Xie completed a doctoral degree in civil engineering, demonstrating expertise in structural mechanics and material behavior analysis. The academic journey built a strong foundation in advanced engineering principles and problem-solving strategies. With specialized studies in structural isolation and damage modeling, Ming cultivated a strong research orientation early in their career. This educational background serves as the cornerstone of professional growth, contributing to innovative approaches in engineering research. The academic experience has allowed Ming to seamlessly integrate theoretical knowledge with practical applications, positioning them as a leader in the civil engineering research domain.

Professional Experience

Ming Xie has extensive professional experience, holding a prominent role as a professor and director at a leading academic institution. In this role, Ming has guided academic programs, contributed to curriculum development, and mentored numerous graduate and postgraduate students. With expertise in structural engineering and material science, Ming has established a robust portfolio of impactful research and practical engineering applications. Responsibilities include overseeing research initiatives, leading projects, and fostering collaboration with industry experts. Ming’s leadership and dedication to academic excellence have helped shape innovative teaching strategies and advanced the institution’s engineering research standards.

Research Interest

Ming Xie focuses research on structural mechanics, damage modeling, and material behavior in civil engineering. Areas of expertise include negative Poisson’s ratio structural isolation, ultrasonic rock characterization, and bond-slip constitutive relationships in steel-reinforced concrete. Ming is deeply interested in exploring material properties under varying stress conditions and predicting structural performance. Through experimental studies and analytical modeling, Ming’s research aims to enhance safety and durability in infrastructure. Ming continues to investigate novel engineering solutions that optimize performance and resilience, contributing to the development of sustainable and innovative engineering designs that benefit society.

Award And Honor

Ming Xie has earned recognition for exceptional contributions to civil engineering research and academic leadership. With achievements spanning multiple publications and influential projects, Ming is widely acknowledged for advancing engineering science. Ming’s innovative work has brought attention to structural performance under challenging conditions and materials with unique mechanical properties. Honors reflect a dedication to scholarly excellence and commitment to education and research advancement. These achievements have positioned Ming as a key figure in engineering innovation, inspiring peers and future researchers to embrace creativity, persistence, and technical expertise in solving complex engineering challenges.

Research Skill

Ming Xie demonstrates strong expertise in structural analysis, experimental testing, and advanced simulation techniques. Skilled in developing mathematical models, Ming applies theoretical frameworks to solve practical engineering problems. Proficiency extends to material property characterization, stochastic modeling, and prediction of structural damage evolution. Ming’s research methodology integrates field observations, laboratory experiments, and numerical simulations to deliver robust engineering solutions. A focus on precision and innovation ensures impactful results across multiple research areas. Ming is adept at guiding research teams, analyzing complex data, and producing actionable engineering insights that support infrastructure advancement and academic excellence.

Publications

Ming Xie has authored multiple peer-reviewed research articles in internationally recognized journals, addressing innovative solutions in civil engineering. Key studies include the performance of elliptical negative Poisson’s ratio isolation bearings, ultrasonic property prediction in rock materials, and stochastic modeling of steel-reinforced concrete bond-slip. These publications showcase technical mastery and problem-solving expertise, contributing significantly to advancing engineering research. Ming’s body of work reflects a strong commitment to exploring new material properties and enhancing structural design methodologies. Each paper demonstrates rigorous analysis, offering insights that inspire further exploration and collaboration within the engineering field.

Title: Study on the Performance of Elliptical Negative Poisson’s Ratio Structural Isolation Bearing
Authors: Ming Xie, Xiangdong Wu
Journal: Buildings, 2025

Title: Study on Ultrasonic Characteristics and Prediction of Rock with Different Pore Sizes
Authors: Lei Wang, Wen Nie, Ming Xie, Zi Wang, Wei Lu, Dongmei Chen, Weinan Lin, Carlo Rosso
Journal: Shock and Vibration, 2024

Title: Stochastic Damage Constitutive Relationship of Steel‐Reinforced Concrete Bond‐Slip
Authors: Ming Xie, Jiahao Liu, Peng Wang, Zi Wang, Jingjing Zhou, Roberto Nascimbene
Journal: Shock and Vibration, 2021

Conclusion

Ming Xie’s academic journey reflects exceptional dedication to research and teaching in civil engineering. Combining advanced knowledge, leadership, and a visionary approach, Ming continues to make significant contributions through innovative projects and scholarly work. Recognized for precision and originality, Ming plays an influential role in shaping engineering education and promoting research excellence. Publications and leadership roles underscore the impact Ming has made on infrastructure safety and material science. As a researcher and mentor, Ming sets a standard of excellence, advancing both scientific understanding and practical engineering applications for future generations.

Faustyn Recha – Structural Engineering – Academic Achievement in Civil Engineering Award

Faustyn Recha - Structural Engineering - Academic Achievement in Civil Engineering Award

Academy of Silesia - Poland

AUTHOR PROFILE

SCOPUS
ORCID
GOOGLE SCHOLAR

SUMMARY

Faustyn Recha is a civil engineer and academic specializing in reinforced concrete structures and corrosion mechanics. Known for integrating numerical modeling with structural engineering, contributions span across research, teaching, and professional practice. Focus areas include degradation modeling of reinforced concrete due to corrosion, structural mechanics, and practical innovations in building technology. Recha has presented findings at major international conferences and led seminars on cutting-edge topics in structural durability. The research is characterized by deep experimental validation and interdisciplinary collaboration. Engagements with institutions across Europe, the USA, and Asia demonstrate a strong global academic and industrial footprint.

EDUCATION

Earned a Ph.D. in engineering and technical sciences with a specialization in civil engineering and transport from the Silesian University of Technology. Completed both bachelor's and master's degrees in construction engineering, specializing in Building and Engineering Structures, from the Częstochowa University of Technology. Education journey combined strong academic performance with early practical exposure, laying the groundwork for expertise in reinforced concrete and structural analysis. The doctoral dissertation addressed the degradation of reinforced concrete structures caused by reinforcement corrosion, showcasing theoretical innovation supported by experimental data. This academic path equipped Recha with skills vital for high-impact scientific and technical roles.

PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE

Currently serves as Assistant Professor at the Academy of Silesia in Katowice, contributing to teaching, research, and coordination within the Civil Engineering, Geodesy, and Transport discipline. Gained experience through prior design studio work and technical supervision roles. Served internships in Germany and Slovakia, focusing on concrete durability and structural analysis. Has held responsibilities in teaching structural mechanics, corrosion science, and advanced construction methods. Practical contributions include over 200 construction projects, technical evaluations, and design solutions. Verified experience in managing construction sites and coordinating with municipalities and industry professionals, ensuring real-world application of academic expertise.

RESEARCH INTEREST

Research interests revolve around the durability and mechanics of reinforced concrete structures, particularly degradation mechanisms triggered by reinforcement corrosion. Investigates thermomechanical modeling, numerical simulation, and probabilistic assessments of structural failure. Current focus includes developing non-invasive methods for estimating corrosion current density through structural deflection analysis. Engages in experimental and theoretical studies to enhance modeling precision and reliability. Other interests encompass geopolymer materials, utility-based mix design optimization, and interval analysis for material degradation. These research areas reflect an integration of structural theory with emerging technologies in material science, contributing to safer and more durable infrastructure.

AWARD AND HONOR

Recognized with several academic distinctions, including a scholarship from the Rector of the Silesian University of Technology. Earned second place in the young scientists’ poster session at the 66th Scientific Conference of the Polish Academy of Sciences. Achieved notable rankings in the "Modern Engineer" technical knowledge competitions. Actively invited as a reviewer for international journals and speaker at prestigious conferences. Recha’s achievements reflect continuous contributions to civil engineering and academic excellence. Ongoing innovations, including a pending patent for prefabricated slab connections, underline a commitment to impactful engineering practices and scientific advancement.

RESEARCH SKILL

Highly skilled in structural modeling, experimental mechanics, advanced FEM simulations, and degradation analysis of reinforced concrete. Proficient in formulating thermomechanical models and corrosion-related strain tensors. Experienced in Monte Carlo simulation for sensitivity analysis, non-invasive diagnostic techniques, and concrete mix design optimization. Adept at scientific writing, technical reporting, and cross-disciplinary collaboration. Skilled in preparing structural design documentation and assessing the condition of existing structures. Familiar with patent development and engineering innovation processes. Expertise spans both laboratory-based experimental methods and computational modeling, enabling comprehensive investigation and application in structural engineering challenges.

PUBLICATIONS TOP NOTED

Published in leading journals such as Materials, Open Engineering, and Przegląd Budowlany. Notable works include the formulation and experimental verification of models estimating corrosion current in reinforced concrete, assessments of structural degradation, and optimization of geopolymer mortar mixes. Recent articles explore interval analysis in concrete degradation and innovative techniques in non-invasive corrosion measurement. Contributions are often co-authored with international collaborators, reflecting broad engagement with global research communities. Participation in conference proceedings and edited volumes further amplifies the academic footprint. Publications address both theoretical frameworks and practical applications, aligning scholarly impact with industry relevance.

Title: Zasady przeprowadzania okresowych badań technicznych obiektów budowlanych w zakresie bezpieczeństwa i użytkowania
Authors: F. Recha, P. Nagel
Journal: BUILDER

Title: Application of Interval Analysis to Assess Concrete Cover Degradation in Accelerated Corrosion Tests
Authors: F. Recha, K. Yurkova, T. Krykowski
Journal: Materials

Title: Estimation method of corrosion current density of RC elements
Author: F. Recha
Journal: Open Engineering

Title: Application of a Generalized Utility Function to Determine the Optimal Composition of Geopolymer Mortar
Authors: M. Kępniak, F. Recha, P. Prochoń
Journal: Materials

Title: Experimental Verification of the Model for Estimating the Corrosion Current of Reinforcement in an RC Element
Authors: F. Recha, W. Raczkiewicz, K. Bacharz, A. Wójcicki, P. Bujňáková, P. Koteš
Journal: Materials

CONCLUSION

Faustyn Recha demonstrates a strong integration of academic knowledge and practical expertise in civil engineering. Research activities, teaching engagements, and industrial collaborations reflect a commitment to innovation, precision, and long-term infrastructure sustainability. By focusing on corrosion-induced degradation and material performance, Recha contributes meaningfully to modern construction challenges. Recognition from academic and professional circles confirms the value and originality of the work. Continued development of new methods, publication of impactful findings, and involvement in structural innovation underline the role as a thought leader in civil engineering and material durability.